THE Archbishop of York today urged people to pray for the victims of the Asian tsunami tragedy and to give generously to aid relief efforts.

Dr David Hope said he was confident that the British people would support the massive appeal for help.

"I urge everyone to donate whatever they can, as soon as they can, to provide essential life-giving services. Every single gift will help," he said.

The Archbishop said that prayers for those who have died, those who are injured or who have been made homeless, and all those helping their fellow human beings, were being said on the hour in churches throughout the land, and on the hour, every hour, at York Minster.

"It is also important that clergy make churches available to people who simply wish to reflect and be quiet," he said.

Dr Hope said his thoughts had been continually with all those affected by the tragedy.

"This is an enormously difficult time, but it is also a time for faith and hope," he said.

Updated: 10:20 Thursday, December 30, 2004